This week’s two main items, the UDL and the book builder rank among the most useful tools I have so far learned about while attending Lamar University. My school is an inclusion school. Every year I have several student’s with learning disabilities. I have no formal training in Special Education so I have trouble keeping up with documenting modifications to lesson plans and with creating learning mediums that will help them grasp a concept taught. I feel that if I am to utilize the UDL template when creating my lesson plans I will be covering most documentation needed for the modifications I make. The book builder is a tool that can help with those modifications. One of the bullet points when first logging into reading 3 for this week stated, “Another approach to individualizing is to build flexibility directly into the [[file:/C:/Users/Jason/Lamar/Class 5 Teaching with Technology/Week 3/Class reflection.doc|curriculum]], using embedded, flexible [[file:/C:/Users/Jason/Lamar/Class 5 Teaching with Technology/Week 3/Class reflection.doc|supports]].” (Rose, 2002) This is exactly what this week gave me, lesson flexibility. The article further states that “you can use the UDL framework to individualize the path to learning.” (Rose, 2002) When using the UDL template given versus traditional lesson plan templates, there is much more detail on how to instruct students. All kids learn differently. Textbooks limit learning to good readers, computers limit learning to those with experience with technology. Using the UDL template and incorporate Ebooks addresses both issues. Students who are scared of technology, but like reading will be more likely to get online to read. This can lead to further exploration with technology and further learning. The same goes for the opposite student. The ones that hate reading and love technology will be much more open to reading a book online then a traditionally printed book. In conclusion this week’s lesson was right along the line with “Teaching Method 1: Provide Multiple Examples.” (Rose, 2002) Reference: Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for Learning. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Available online at the Center for Applied Special Technology Web site. Retrieved from http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/ideas/tes/
Reference:
Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for Learning. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Available online at the Center for Applied Special Technology Web site. Retrieved from http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/ideas/tes/